Guangxu Tongbao (Machine-Struck Cash)

China (Qing Dynasty) · 1887-1908

A circular brass coin with a square center hole and machine-struck inscriptions on both sides.

Country: China (Qing Dynasty)
Year: 1887-1908
Denomination: 1 Cash (1 Wen)
Metal: Brass / Copper alloy

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified June 3, 2026More china (qing dynasty) coins →

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Overview

A circular brass coin with a square center hole and machine-struck inscriptions on both sides.

Historical significance

Issued during the reign of the Guangxu Emperor, these coins represent the transition from traditional sand-casting to modern Western machine-striking methods in China. This was a response to the debasement and inefficiency of the provincial minting system.

Obverse (front)

Four Hanzi characters: 'Guang Xu Tong Bao' (Currency of the Guangxu period) read Top-Bottom-Right-Left.

Reverse (back)

Two Manchu characters flanking the center square hole representing the mint name. The left character 'Boo' (Source) and the right character 'Guang' (Guangdong Province).

Estimated value

$5-$15 for common circulated examples; $40-$100+ for high-grade or rare mint varieties.

What drives this coin's value

Mint location, weight variation (larger 'standard' vs. smaller 'light' issues), and the sharpness of the machine-struck details.

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine with some visible oxidation and surface wear; details of the Manchu characters are well-preserved.

Mintage & rarity

Common for this specific mint; however, machine-struck cash is generally more sought after than cast counterparts.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Look for crisp edges on the center square hole. Modern cast fakes often have 'soft' or rounded characters and a pitted surface texture.

Notable varieties & errors

Small variations in character stroke width and the proximity of the characters to the rim.

Similar coins

Easily confused with central government cast coins of the same era, but machine-struck versions have sharper, more uniform edges and characters.

Care & preservation

Do not clean or scrub the coin, as this destroys the original patina. Store in a PVC-free flip or archival-safe coin holder to prevent environmental damage.